Coombe Abbey Hotel in Rugby, England, traces its origins to a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. Founded in 1150, the abbey flourished for nearly 400 years before being dissolved during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539. The property was subsequently granted to John Harrington, who transformed it into a private residence.

The abbey’s tumultuous history includes its role in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Princess Elizabeth, daughter of King James I, was staying at Coombe Abbey when conspirators planned to kidnap her and install her as a Catholic monarch. The plot was foiled, but the incident left an indelible mark on the abbey’s history.

Coombe Abbey is reputed to be haunted by several spirits. One of the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a young girl named Matilda. According to local legend, Matilda was a stable hand who fell to her death from the upper floors. Visitors and staff have reported seeing her ghostly figure in various parts of the building, often accompanied by the sound of horses.

Another well-known spectral resident is the “Ghostly Monk.” Believed to be a remnant from the abbey’s monastic past, this apparition is often seen walking the corridors in a hooded robe. Witnesses describe feeling a sudden chill and sensing an unseen presence when the monk is near.

The Abbott’s Chamber is said to be particularly active with paranormal phenomena. Guests have reported hearing disembodied footsteps, seeing shadow figures, and experiencing unexplained temperature drops in this room.